Former NFL running back Duke Johnson has officially announced his retirement from professional football after eight seasons in the league. Johnson was originally drafted in the third round by the Cleveland Browns in the 2015 NFL Draft after a successful college career at the University of Miami. He decided to forgo his senior season to pursue his career in the NFL.
Johnson’s NFL career was plagued by injuries from the start, with a hamstring injury on the first day of training camp and a concussion during his rookie season. Despite these setbacks, he was named the backup running back for the Browns and showed promise in his first season with 379 rushing yards. He was eventually traded to the Houston Texans in 2019, where he had his most impactful season with 410 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
After two seasons in Houston, Johnson was released in 2021 and signed onto the Jacksonville Jaguars practice squad before being released again. He then joined the Miami Dolphins, where he appeared in five games and had 330 yards and three touchdowns. Johnson’s career came to a close with the Buffalo Bills, where he appeared in one game and rushed for four yards on two attempts. Despite not reaching the level of success many had hoped for, Johnson finished his career with 2265 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, along with 311 receptions for 3,870 yards and 12 scores receiving.
Johnson’s retirement announcement came on May 5th, ending his eight-year career in the NFL where he played for the Browns, Texans, Dolphins, and Bills. After his decision to retire, Johnson reflected on his time in the league and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play at the professional level. While his career may not have reached the heights he had hoped for, Johnson’s perseverance and dedication allowed him to have a successful run in the NFL and make a lasting impact on the teams he played for.
As Johnson transitions into retirement, he leaves behind a legacy of hard work and determination that will inspire future generations of athletes. Despite the challenges he faced throughout his career, Johnson’s resilience and passion for the game allowed him to overcome obstacles and continue playing at the highest level. While his time in the NFL may have come to an end, Johnson’s impact on the league and the teams he played for will be remembered for years to come.
